Books Like...

"That Which Should Not Be" by Brett J. Talley is a Lovecraftian horror novel that follows the journey of Carter Weston, a student at Miskatonic University, as he sets out to retrieve an ancient and dangerous book for his professor. Along the way, Weston encounters various individuals who share terrifying tales of encounters with evil, leading him to uncover the dark forces that threaten the world. The story is told through multiple narratives that are tied together by the overarching theme of ancient and powerful entities seeking to unleash chaos upon the world, reminiscent of H.P. Lovecraft's style of writing.

The book captures the essence of Lovecraftian horror with its colorful and thrilling storytelling, providing moments of real terror that keep readers on the edge of their seats. Talley's writing style mimics Lovecraft's, creating a narrative that combines different short stories related through the Cthulhu mythos, while retaining the classic horror feel of Lovecraftian fiction. The novel successfully weaves together multiple storylines to create a cohesive and engaging plot that delves into the depths of ancient evils and the supernatural.

Billy O'Callaghan's debut novel, "Dead House," tells the haunting story of Maggie Turner, an artist seeking solace in an isolated cottage in Ireland after a brutal assault. As Maggie restores the cottage, she unwittingly brings the past to life, leading to a series of otherworldly events that blur the lines between reality and the supernatural. O'Callaghan's prose beautifully weaves Irish legends, ghostly elements, and a sense of impending doom, creating a chilling and atmospheric narrative that delves into themes of belief, isolation, and the consequences of delving into the unknown.

"Randalls Round" by Eleanor Scott is a collection of 9 ghost stories first published in 1929. The tales delve into eerie folk dances, ancient rituals, cursed antiquaries, and haunted manor houses. The writing style is reminiscent of M.R. James and E.F. Benson, with a focus on quiet hauntings, hidden secrets, and a touch of folklore. The stories are characterized by their lively, witty, and utterly chilling narratives, often leaving room for the reader's imagination to fill in the gaps.

'The Bright Lands' by John Fram is a supernatural horror novel set in a rural, working-class town in Texas. The plot revolves around Joel, a successful financial wizard, who returns to his hometown after receiving a strange text from his younger brother Dylan. As they investigate Dylan's disappearance, they uncover dark secrets and a sinister presence lurking in the town. The book combines elements of crime fiction, horror, and mystery, with a compelling narrative that keeps readers engaged till the end.

Readers praise M.R. James for his mastery in crafting ghost stories that evoke fear and suspense. The stories are described as moody, inventive, and classically scary, appealing to lovers of creepy and sinister tales. The author's works are recommended for those seeking a spooky and safe read, with titles like "A Warning to the Curious" and "Oh, Whistle And I'll Come To You, My Lad" standing out as favorites. The stories often revolve around scholars encountering unusual texts or artifacts and slowly realizing they are in a ghost story, creating a sense of dread and tension.

M.R. James's writing style is commended for being sharply written, slyly composed, and scary as hell, with stories that are quiet, spooky, and filled with ominous tones. The author's ability to create a chilling atmosphere through his narratives, such as in "A Warning to the Curious," is highlighted as a key strength. Readers appreciate the historical backdrop and sense of dread in James's tales, making them both effective and inspirational for those interested in classic horror and folk horror elements.

'Houses Under the Sea' by Caitlin R. Kiernan is a collection of Lovecraftian stories that pay homage to H.P. Lovecraft. The book features tales that blend cosmic horror elements with the author's unique voice and vision, creating a chilling exploration of the unknown. Kiernan's writing style is described as lyrical, gritty, and atmospheric, with stories that linger in the mind long after they are read. The narratives in this collection often involve marine biologist characters discovering creepy elements in the deep sea, structured as fairy tales with a touch of whimsical cleverness and earnest seriousness.

Tomie is a surreal horror comic that revolves around the titular character, a mysterious girl with a hypnotic voice and a birthmark. The stories explore how Tomie manipulates men into falling in love with her, only to drive them to madness and murder. The book delves into Tomie's supernatural abilities, regenerative powers, and her impact on those around her, portraying her as a complex and enigmatic figure. The writing style of the book is described as diverse, grotesque, and unrelentingly horrifying, with a mix of self-contained stories and interconnected narratives that keep readers engaged till the end.

'Widdershins' in the series 'Whyborne & Griffin' by Jordan L. Hawk follows the story of Percival Whyborne, a shy and intelligent philologist haunted by his past, and Griffin, an ex-Pinkerton with his own demons. When a murder investigation leads them to translate an ancient book, sparks fly between them, but Lovecraftian horrors and a murder mystery complicate their budding romance. Set in a Victorian-era atmosphere with a mix of supernatural elements, the book features strong character development, a compelling plot, and a touch of romance that keeps readers engaged. The writing style is described as natural, flowing, and immersive, drawing readers into the world of Widdershins and the adventures of Whyborne and Griffin.

Drawing Blood by Poppy Z. Brite is a novel that intertwines elements of horror, romance, and dark themes. The story follows Trevor and Zach, two haunted individuals who meet and fall in love in the midst of exploring a haunted house in Missing Mile, North Carolina. The book delves into their troubled pasts, the mysteries surrounding a violent incident from Trevor's childhood, and the eerie atmosphere of the setting. Brite's writing style is described as dreamlike, addictive, and rich in description, creating a world where art, music, and haunting violence play significant roles in driving the narrative forward.